What Are Some Causes of Cirrhosis of the Liver?

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Causes of cirrhosis of the liver include persistent alcohol abuse, fatty liver, hepatitis B and C, poorly formed or destroyed bile ducts, and inherited disorders of sugar metabolism, according to Mayo Clinic. Prior to treatment, the exact cause of the disease should be determined to avoid worsening the condition.

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An injured liver usually repairs itself, and this leads to the formation of scar tissue over a long period of time, which causes cirrhosis, as Mayo Clinic explains. The liver may fail to function properly if these tissues form a large mass.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis, which is the hardening and scarring of the bile ducts, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, according to Mayo Clinic. Individuals who are infected by parasites, a condition known as schistosomiasis, can also develop cirrhosis.

Certain inherited diseases and conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, can cause cirrhosis, according to Mayo Clinic. Other conditions that can lead to cirrhosis include genetic digestive disorder, the collection of copper in the liver and excessive iron accumulation in the body. Autoimmune hepatitis, which is a disease caused by a malfunctioning immune system, may cause cirrhosis.

Cirrhosis is likely to have more than one cause, as Mayo Clinic explains. When the specific cause of cirrhosis is unknown, the condition is referred to as cryptogenic cirrhosis.